26547, Reedsville, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26547, Reedsville, West Virginia is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.48 percent of the residents in 26547 has some form of health insurance. 36.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.91 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 26547 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 783 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 65 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26547. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 435 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,318 health care providers accessible to residents in 26547, Reedsville, West Virginia.

The analysis of lung cancer care within ZIP code 26547, encompassing Reedsville, West Virginia, presents a complex picture. Evaluating the quality of care necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering not just the presence of physicians but also the accessibility of services, the integration of technology, and the support systems available to patients. This analysis focuses on key aspects impacting lung cancer care, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. Reedsville, a rural community, likely faces challenges in this regard. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the initial point of contact for patients exhibiting symptoms. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses, a critical factor in lung cancer outcomes. Specialized care, including pulmonologists and oncologists, may be even more limited. Patients may need to travel significant distances to access these specialists, adding to the burden of their illness. The availability of these specialists, and their proximity to Reedsville, directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

Examining the characteristics of medical practices in and around 26547 is essential. Are there any standout practices known for their expertise in lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment? Do these practices utilize evidence-based guidelines and offer comprehensive care, including smoking cessation programs and palliative care services? The presence of multidisciplinary teams, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and support staff, is crucial for providing holistic care. Practices that prioritize patient education and shared decision-making also contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score. This includes providing clear and understandable information about treatment options, side effects, and prognosis.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. This is particularly relevant for follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to mental health services. The availability of telemedicine consultations for lung cancer patients directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, as it improves access to care and reduces travel burdens. The practices’ investment in and utilization of telehealth services is a key indicator of their commitment to patient care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a critical component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for providing support to patients and their families. Integration of mental health services into the care pathway, whether through on-site therapists or referrals to external providers, significantly enhances the Lung Cancer Score. This includes access to support groups, individual counseling, and psychiatric care.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Reedsville, ZIP code 26547, is likely impacted by the rural nature of the area. The score is likely reduced due to the limited number of specialists, and the potential for long travel times. The score is likely improved by practices that invest in telehealth services. The score is further improved by the availability of mental health resources. The overall score will also be impacted by the practice of evidence-based medicine, multidisciplinary teams, and patient-centered care.

The presence of a comprehensive lung cancer screening program, following the guidelines of the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), is critical. This includes offering low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans to eligible individuals. The availability of these screening programs and the practices’ adherence to these guidelines are important components of the Lung Cancer Score. The score is also influenced by the practices’ commitment to early detection and intervention.

The quality of care also depends on the coordination of services. Practices that effectively communicate with each other, share patient information, and collaborate on treatment plans contribute to a higher Lung Cancer Score. This includes seamless referrals, shared electronic health records, and regular case conferences. The efficiency and effectiveness of these systems directly impact the patient experience and outcomes.

The availability of clinical trials and research opportunities can also influence the Lung Cancer Score. Patients in Reedsville may benefit from access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies through participation in clinical trials. The presence of research-active practices or affiliations with larger medical centers that conduct clinical trials can enhance the score.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static measure; it evolves over time. Healthcare providers are constantly adapting to new technologies, treatment options, and patient needs. Regular monitoring and evaluation of the factors discussed above are essential for ensuring the delivery of high-quality lung cancer care in Reedsville.

The overall assessment highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve lung cancer care in Reedsville. This includes increasing the availability of specialists, expanding telemedicine services, integrating mental health support, and promoting early detection and screening. A collaborative approach, involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers, is essential for achieving these goals.

To gain a more visual and detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Reedsville, including the locations of medical practices, specialist availability, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the healthcare map of the area.

**Explore the healthcare landscape of Reedsville and surrounding areas with CartoChrome maps. Gain a visual understanding of physician locations, resource availability, and more. Visit CartoChrome today to start mapping your healthcare journey.**